Nepalese broadcaster Sujan Shakya, 36, shared the biases experienced during the preparation for marriage with a Korean wife.
On the 23rd, Sujan posted on Instagram, saying, "When the wife in public office said she was marrying Nepalese Sujan, married male colleagues asked if I was trying to change to a long-term visa (F series) through marriage to the wife."
Sujan noted, "(The wife) felt thankful for the concern shown for her, but it lingered in the mind for a long time as it was felt as prejudice against the combination of a man from a developing country and a Korean woman."
Sujan revealed that he had been a permanent resident with an F-5 visa several years before meeting his wife.
Sujan explained, "I entered the country for language study (D-4), went through student (D-2), employment (E-7), residence (F-2) visas, and finally obtained permanent residency 11 years after entering Korea," and "The wife decided to marry, being impressed by the perseverance and diligence shown in obtaining permanent residency through a typical model student's route."
Continuing, "The above anecdote is a simple example that even I, with some recognition as a foreign broadcaster through a popular TV program, can face. Despite receiving compliments about speaking Korean better than Koreans, I still encounter subtle discrimination."
Furthermore, said, "Young people from migratory backgrounds might live with more bewilderment, frustration, or helplessness than I do in everyday life," and expressed hope, "I hope our students can overcome the issue of identity confusion, shake off feelings of alienation, and play a role as a bridge connecting the cultures of both countries."
Sujan's story is featured in the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education's guidebook on career planning based on residency status for students with migratory backgrounds. He expressed, "I hope this guidebook will serve as a small guide for the future of youth from migratory backgrounds."
Sujan entered Korea in 2009, graduated from Dankook University, and gained recognition in 2015 by appearing on 'Non-Summit.' Continued activities, appearing in 'Where Is My Friend's House?' and 'Neighbor Charles.'
Sujan married a Korean woman in April last year and is enjoying married life.